Hanchett Mfg. Inc

12/31/2025

Ralph Farra Manting, 84, of Big Rapids, passed away on December 28, 2025. He was born on April 21, 1941, in Big Rapids to Jack and Kathryn (Hanchett) Manting.

He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1961-1964. On July 20, 1974, Ralph was united in marriage to Judy (Post). Together they made their home in Woodburn, Oregon, before returning to Big Rapids in 1980. For most of his adult life, Ralph worked at, and eventually owned, the family business, Hanchett Manufacturing, which was established in 1889. He was a skilled and passionate salesman who loved his work and valued the people he met throughout his career.

When he wasn’t working, Ralph enjoyed his lifelong love for cars—collecting them, driving them, and watching NASCAR with Judy. His favorite car was the Camaro. He also loved sports, especially when his Detroit Lions, Michigan State Spartans, or Ferris State Bulldogs were playing. Decades after graduating from Big Rapids High School, Ralph was honored to receive the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2023.

Ralph is survived by his children, Shawna (Tim) Crisenbery, Eric (Martha Huttenlocher) Manting, and Laura Manting; grandchildren, Logan (Nick Schrader) O’Neil, Christopher O’Neil, Nick Manting, and Jack Manting; great-grandchildren, Ryan and Corbin O’Neil, and Scarlett Schrader; and siblings, Thomas (Sally) Manting and Marcae (Dave Martin) Manting.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Judy; daughter, Lori O'Neil; and his parents.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Big Rapids. Visitation will take place at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes, Big Rapids, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 P.M., and on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 P.M. and 5:00–7:00 P.M., with a Rosary at 6:30 P.M. Ralph will be laid to rest with Military Honors at Mount Carmel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Riley McKenzie Fund Endowment or The Arc of Mecosta County.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes, Big Rapids.
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12/28/2025

It is with great sorrow that I announce that my father, Ralph Manting, passed away this morning at 8:30. He was an amazing father and friend to many and will be greaty missed every single day. I will post funeral arrangements once they are made.

Shawna

12/07/2025

06/03/2025

Now available, 40" to 84" knife grinders with 8 to 12 week deliveries

08/30/2024

😉 Happy Thursdee Y'all!

11/11/2023

Thanks to all the veterans! So proud of this company, Hanchett Mfg. Inc., like any company, it’s the people that makes the company look good and makes it successful. A big thank you to all veterans and a big thank you to the dedicated employees that makes Hanchett Mfg. look good! I know who you are. The ones that always steps up!

11/10/2023

🌹🦨🌹

11/09/2023

"This was my autistic son putting up his felt Christmas tree today. After he decorated, he sat and cried for a while. After I asked him what was wrong, he replied, " I am sad because nobody will see my tree and all the hard work I have done " He then asked me could I post the image on my Facebook. So I obliged. Hope you pass the on so everyone can see Marks amazing tree. 🙂 "

10/26/2023

We are looking for a Machinist that can operate older styles of lathes, milling machines and drill presses. Good salary, great benefit packages and all holidays off and great people to work with.

05/20/2023

May 20th. 2023

04/03/2023

Home from the groomers looking pretty spiffy!!